Introduced by Rep. Laura Cox (R) on January 24, 2017 To make it a crime to intentionally aim a laser or other beam of directed energy at an aircraft, with violators subject to a $10,000 fine and five years in prison. The bill defines "directed energy device" as one that “emits highly focused energy and is capable of transferring that energy to a target to damage or interfere with its operation”. Official Text and Analysis.

Referred to the House Law and Justice Committee on January 24, 2017

Reported in the House on March 7, 2017 Without amendment and with the recommendation that the bill pass.

Passed 107 to 1 in the House on March 16, 2017. See Who Voted "Yes" and Who Voted "No".(same description)To make it a crime to intentionally aim a laser or other beam of directed energy at an aircraft, with violators subject to a $10,000 fine and five years in prison. The bill defines "directed energy device" as one that “emits highly focused energy and is capable of transferring that energy to a target to damage or interfere with its operation”.

Received in the Senate on March 21, 2017

Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 21, 2017

Reported in the Senate on March 30, 2017 With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

Passed 37 to 0 in the Senate on April 25, 2017. See Who Voted "Yes" and Who Voted "No".(same description)To make it a crime to intentionally aim a laser or other beam of directed energy at an aircraft, with violators subject to a $10,000 fine and five years in prison. The bill defines "directed energy device" as one that “emits highly focused energy and is capable of transferring that energy to a target to damage or interfere with its operation”.